Sapporo Travel Guide

QUICK FACTS

The largest city on Hokkaido Island, Sapporo is home to nearly 2 million people.

The modern city is among the nation’s youngest, having developed from a population of just 7 members in 1857.

It is the prefecture’s main political, cultural and economic channel.

The city held the 1972 WinterOlympics, the first ever held in Asia.

Nickname: The City of Ramen

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY).

Spoken languages: Japanese.

Best time to visit: from January to March for the wonderful snow season and the world-renowned Sapporo Snow Festival. Alternatively, visit from April to September for a pleasant, mild climate.

Arriving via airport: New Chitose Airport (CTS) is served by Chuo, Hokuto Kotsu and Donan bus lines with tickets dependent on distance; JR bus Airport Express for ¥1,040 one-way. Taxis pick up passengers from the arrivals hall and charge ¥12,000-14,000.

WHERE TO STAY

Chūō-ku is the focal point of the city, a well-planned district awash in entertainment and culture through the many landmarks, which include the Sapporo TV Tower and Odori Park. Susukino is a fun congestion of bars, restaurants, karaoke lounges, teahouses and more, perfect for those who like to be central to the action. The genteel neighbourhood of Minami-ku offers peace and quiet while also being connected to the crucial wards via the city’s efficient transportation.

GETTING AROUND

Sapporo is Japan’s easiest-to-navigate city, with city blocks named and numbered according to the point of the compass.

The city’s organized transportation system consists of the subway, tram and privately-owned bus companies. One-day passes for unlimited use of the subway cost ¥800 while a one-day pass for unlimited use of the network costs ¥1000.

The Hokkaido Rail Pass provides unlimited access to JR trains and buses in all of Hokkaido, with a 3-day pass priced at ¥15,000 and a weekly-pass at ¥22,000.

Taxis are readily available around the city and can be hailed from the street. Meters start at ¥580 with a 20% surcharge between 23.00-5.00. Dial 881 311 or 581 2454 to pre-book.

SAPPORO NIGHTLIFE

Drinking age is 20,and last call is 4 AM.

Susukino is home to the largest and most varied entertainment scene, with bars open all night catering to the young professional crowd.

Sapporo Station has a lively pub scene that caters to a casual crowd.

Odori offers its takers a vibrant music scene, favoured by local and international bands.

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

Sapporo TV Tower watches over the city, a landmark that holds an observation deck at 90 metres, shops and restaurants.

Odori Park is a symbol of Sapporo, a major cultural destination famed for its activities as it hosts the annual Snow Festival in Feruary and the Bon and Yosakoi summer festivals.

Sapporo Beer Museum is a museum dedicated to the history of beer in Japan and in particular to Sapporo beer, one of the oldest and most popular brands in the country.

Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art hosts exhibits on contemporary art

Sapporo Clock Tower is the oldest building in the city and one of the few remaining Western-style structures, a symbol of the American assistance received in developing the city.

INTERESTING WALKS

Nijo Market features fresh local produce such as Hokkaido melons and seafood such as sea urchins and salmon roe.

Moerenuma Park is the last wish by the late sculptor Isami Noguchi. The grounds feature several interesting designs, from the Sea Fountain to thr Glass Pyramid and are a popular summer and winter destination.

LOCAL WISDOM

Hokkaido is the birthplace of Sapporo beer, first brewed in 1876 during the Meiji period.

Shiroi Koibito is the ubiquitous souvenir, a premium sandwich cookie that translates to “white lover,” made with white chocolate between two wafers of shortbread.

Where to find good cheap eats: Ramen Yokocho is a lane packed with shops selling Sapporo’s famous ramen for budget-friendly prices.